A MAN needed 14 stitches in his head after collapsing following an attack on Itchen Bridge in Southampton.

The 33-year-old victim was walking on the Woolston side of the bridge when he was approached by a man who asked him to come towards him. As he did so, the attacker punched him twice in the face, causing him to fall to the ground, where the man put his foot on his throat, causing him to pass out.

The victim regained consciousness and staggered away but later collapsed outside St Patrick's Primary School, Portsmouth Road, where he was helped by a man who police now want to trace.

He received cuts and bruises in the attack.

The man who carried out the assault was described as white, aged about 20, 5ft 11in, of medium build with medium-length dark brown or black hair which was messy on top. He wore a white T-shirt and dark trousers.

Police are now appealing for any witnesses to the incident to come forward.

They would also like to hear from a man who helped the victim when he collapsed outside the school after the attack in the early hours of July 16.

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Wendy Smith at Bitterne Police Station on 0845 045 45 45 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.